Critique de Doody's Book

This book represents a revised, up-to-date edition of a text recognized as one of the standards in the fields of clinical chemistry and clinical laboratory science. The authors and multiple contributors take a systematic approach to the principles and theory of laboratory techniques and methods used in the practice of clinical chemistry, and provide a comprehensive overview of disease pathophysiology with clinical correlation of laboratory data. This book retains the same familiar format of two earlier editions, permitting educators to use existing teaching plans. However, several new or extensively revised chapters have been added to ensure that the reader is presented with information reflecting the significant changes that have occurred in recent years in clinical chemistry and the general healthcare practice environment. This book is intended primarily as a teaching text for students in medical technology and clinical laboratory science, but is also appropriate for individuals pu rsuing advanced training in clinical chemistry. It is a valuable, state-of-the-art reference for practicing clinical chemists and pathologists. The authors and various contributors are well known and respected in their subspecialty areas of expertise. The text is divided into two major sections: laboratory techniques and pathophysiology. Analytical method reviews are now incorporated at the end of chapters, where clinical utility of specific diagnostic tests is discussed. Each chapter features an introductory outline, a set of learning objectives, a glossary of key terms, and an extensive, updated list of references. Summary tables and figures are clear, concise, and contribute significantly to the learning process. This book continues to be an excellent resource for both beginners and established practitioners to find general information and to review current trends and practices in clinical chemistry. It is well organized, complete, and fills the niche between basic introductory texts and advanced, technically complex reference manuals on the market. Ronald W. McLawhon, MD, PhD(University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine). Copyright 2001, Doody Publishing